Cheap SUVs can be the perfect options for families on a
budget. Offering the same versatility and accommodations as more expensive
models, they are a great way to get your family out of the house and on the
road. Whether hauling groceries from Costco or bring the family to your
favorite campground, the right SUV is ready to get the job done. And luckily
you don’t have to spend your life savings to get it. A number of cheap SUVs
have just the specifications you need to leave you with the most satisfying driving
experience possible at the price you are looking for. While you may have an
aversion to cheaper SUVs or just aren’t sure they can truly deliver, the
following myths and facts should help clear things up.

While you may not be able to find all of the features of a
luxury SUV, cheaper SUVs have plenty to offer in the way of features. The 2015
Buick Encore offers a wave of features including a 7 inch display infotainment
system, satellite radio, Bluetooth, navigation, a high quality audio system and
a sun-roof. You can also add features such as forward collision warning and
lane departure warning.

334

MYTH: Cheap SUVs are small and cramped.

There are plenty affordable SUVs in the compact, mid-size
and full-size range with plenty of room for both cargo and passengers. The 2016
Honda HR-V is a compact SUV which is actually quite roomy for a vehicle of its
class. Therefore, you don’t have to sacrifice space for price.

233

MYTH: Cheap SUVs have poor gas mileage.

While it is true that some cheaper SUVs can have poor mileage, this is equally true for luxury SUVs. Just as with luxury SUVs, it all depends on the particular SUV. The 2016 Honda HR-V for instance gets 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, which is better than many compact cars even.

112

MYTH: Cheap SUVs have poor performance.

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is a perfect example of a cheap SUV with
impressive performance. With a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 146
horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque, drivers of any class will appreciate great
performance when they see it.

112

MYTH: If I spend more on a car, I want have to spend as much on features.

The truth is that even if you spend a ton on a luxury model,
you’ll still have to spend a lot more if you want anything other than the base
model. In reality, by spending less on the SUV itself, you’ll be able to afford
a lot more features compared to the luxury model.

102

MYTH: Cheap SUVs are not as safe.

If safety had anything to do with price then for many
people, the choice would be as simple as that. The truth is there are many
affordable SUVs with high safety ratings and standards such as the 2016 FIAT
500X which happens to have a near-perfect safety rating.

81

MYTH: Cheap SUVs are poorly constructed.

While you might be under the impression that you get what
you pay for, that couldn’t be further from the truth. As long as you shop
carefully, you will find a number of options that are just as well made as a
vehicle triple the price. The 2016 Fiat 500X, which offers the luxurious
interior many crave in a luxury model is just one of many examples to prove
that you don’t have to spend more to get the best.

81

MYTH: Cheap SUVs are clunky and difficult to drive.

There are actually a number of sleek and agile SUV models
available at a relatively low price, including the 2016 MINI Cooper Countryman,
the 2016 Jeep Renegade and the Mazda CX-3.